Afetler ve diplomasi: Çatışma ve işbirliği arasında Türkiye ve Suriye

This thesis examines how disasters, such as the 2023 earthquakes, and geopolitical challenges, like water disputes, influence Türkiye's foreign policy with Syria through the framework ofdisaster diplomacy. Focusing on the post-2021 period, when efforts were made to facilitate constructive changes in bilateral relations, the study investigates how natural disasters and transboundary resource issues can serve as catalysts for dialogue and cooperation. Over the past three decades, the relationship between these two neighboring states has been marked by a highly politicized environment, shaped by unresolved historical disputes and various attempts at rapprochement. In a world increasingly exposed to both natural catastrophes and geopolitical challenges, the role of shared disasters and resources in Türkiye-Syria relations remains underexplored. This thesis analyzes the 2023 twin earthquakes as a disaster with the potential to transcend political barriers and foster goodwill, while examining water disputes as a dualistic factor of conflict and cooperation. Employing a disaster diplomacy framework and drawing on the data collected in the newspapers, policy analyses and historical accounts, this thesis argues that disasters and shared resource challenges can serve as powerful catalysts for diplomatic engagement. However, their impact is contingent upon broader geopolitical tensions, historical grievances, and the prevailing political context.